An Italian black, white and terracotta coloured scagliola top 19th century

in the Etruscan manner, of rectangular form centred by a reclining neo-classical figure within a border of neo-classical figures and lions, engraved with scrolls; restored

This top with decoration in imitation of excavated 'antique' vases is typical of the 'Etruscan' style which was popularised in the third quarter of the 18th century by the publication of Sir William Hamilton's Collection of Etruscan, Greek and Roman Antiquities, published in Naples in 1766-67 and engraved by Francesco Morelli. There are a pair of Florentine 'Etruscan' scagliola tops at Corsham Court, Wiltshire, signed by Carlo Paoletto 1808.